Because Therapy's Expensive

Here we are again, on the edge of another school year. And while we are ready for the order and structure a school year brings, there is just something about that freedom we feel in the summer to let the rules go. To throw a plate of cheese and crackers and grapes on the table for kids to grab and go as they run through the kitchen and call it dinner. To consider an afternoon spent in the pool an adequate substitute for an evening bath. And to finish binge watching whatever season of whatever show you are watching because the kids are roaming the neighborhood on their bikes. In the chaos of the order though comes sports practices and music lessons so dinnertime all together can be a challenge. Being able to throw something together that is easy and tasty is key and if you can manage to squeeze in more than one family dinner a week, well, we think you are winning.

Sheet Pan DinnersI love these because not only are prep and cleanup a breeze, you can also throw the pans on the grill instead of in the oven when it is still burning up outside. All recipes from tasteofhome.com

Speaking of pizzas, one of our favorite family dinners is DIY pizzas. It's amazing what your kids will eat when they make it themselves. Mushrooms, apples and corn on a pizza? Why not? Read more here.

Image credit: 100daysofrealfood.com

Slow Cooker DinnersDon't think the slow cooker is just for soup and chili. We even found a brownie recipe for the slow cooker so it's definitely something you should be using a lot. The website where we found these calls them Dump and Go Dinners. Perfect.​Pork Carnitas